Oh Where, oh where is my coding?
When we hear the word coding, some people start to think about computer science, long lines of text, and dark dank computer labs. It is technical, detailed, and overwhelming. However, where we are in our profession, and (most likely) our level of understanding on the topic – we would not be in the same realm…
Assistive tech in the class – What works for one, works for all – if they buy in
During my short time as a teacher, I have had a few experiences with assistive technology. Most have not been well received. While I worked with students with ADHD and learning disabilities, the only tools I was aware of at the time were the speech-to-text and reader on Microsoft Word and OneNote. While these are…
Assessment is a conversation? Or is it solely objective?
When we consider the statement from Joe Bower, “Assessment is not a spreadsheet, it’s a conversation”, we can see there is a disconnect between the reasoning behind assessment and its reception. While we, as educators, try our hardest to attempt to give good feedback and ways to improve student’s work; students (for the most part) stop…
Web 3.0 – A bold new adventure or a web of danger?
When looking at the evolution to Web 3.0, we can see the influence of this new technology on our students and education on the whole. As Gerstein states, “The Web, Internet, Social Media, and the evolving, emerging technologies have created a perfect storm or convergence of resources, tools, open and free information access.” This concept,…
Productivity suites are producing more than you think
The purpose of education that is discussed in the New York Times article is an age-old question; is school a place to create educated and engaged citizens, or is it a place to create workers. If you were to ask the education philosopher John Bobbitt, he would tell you that schools create workers. According to Bobbitt, public…
The past, present and future of AV technology in schools
While I understand the implications that Postman makes in this statement, I have to argue some of its implications. If we look at the media of that era, there were many concerns surrounding “Sesame Street” and its impact on children’s programming. At the time, Mr. Dressup (a TV program focused on simplicity, creativity and imagination)…
Whose learning style is it anyways?
When I started out into the realm of teaching, I was not prepared for what I was about to encounter. We are taught theory and best practice. However, these are all confined within the realm of a non-complex classroom. The idea of differentiation and classroom management are essentially impossible to teach in a university classroom…
Innovation vs Distraction: Teacher’s involvement
Technology, and more specifically educational technology (also known as ed tech), can be a double-edged sword. It can be a useful tool which provides enriched and meaningful learning (with a hint of fun). It provides an environment of engagement with material and learning new skills. Ed tech can also be a distraction from the lesson,…